Police Ranks Swell by 3,000 Amid Government Recruitment Drive
Over 3,000 new officers have joined police forces across England and Wales since the government launched its massive recruitment campaign. The figures, released today (30 April), reveal a major boost to policing numbers, part of a pledge to add 20,000 officers over three years.
On Track to Hit 6,000 New Officers by March 2021
Since September 2019, 3,005 recruits have joined specifically under the police uplift programme. In total, forces recruited 6,435 officers from November 2019 to March 2020—including some hired before the campaign began.
The total officer count now stands at 131,596—a 5% increase since March 2019—with roughly half of that rise thanks to the uplift drive. Recruitment is accelerating fast, with forces set to hit their interim target of 6,000 new officers by March 2021.
Home Secretary Praises New Recruits for Stepping Up During COVID Crisis
Home Secretary Priti Patel hosted a Zoom call with Lancashire Constabulary’s fresh-faced officers, thanking them for joining the frontline fight during the coronavirus pandemic. She said:
“Each one of these brave officers will make a difference in helping to cut crime and keep people safe. For many, their first role has been to join the fight to stop the spread of coronavirus, protect the NHS and save lives.
Thanks to new digital assessment centres, the doors remain wide open for anyone who wants to join them and make a difference in their community.
Getting more police officers on the streets is an absolute priority for the British people – and this Government.”
Recruitment Goes Digital to Keep Up Pace Amid Pandemic
The College of Policing introduced new online assessment centres to keep recruitment on track despite COVID-19. Candidates experience situational judgement tests, briefing exercises, and interviews—all online. West Midlands and Hampshire forces already trial the platform, with a national rollout planned for June.
New recruits are receiving focused training to be safely deployed on the frontline quickly.
College of Policing CEO Chief Constable Mike Cunningham said:
“The recruitment figures released today are extremely encouraging and demonstrate the scale and breadth of the positive work that has been undertaken so far to increase police officer numbers.”
“This investment is a great opportunity to boost diversity and equip new officers with skills to handle the complexities of the job.”
“We’re working hard to keep recruitment going despite the current emergency with online assessments and other measures to get officers on the streets and keep communities safe.”
Crime Down 28% as Police Get More Support
Early data shows overall crime fell by 28% in the first weeks of the coronavirus outbreak.
The government backs police efforts with expanded testing for essential workers, relaxed tax rules to encourage retired officers to return, and an £84million emergency fund.
NPCC Chair Martin Hewitt added:
“With over 3,000 additional officers joining in seven months, we’re on track for 6,000 by March next year.”
“Working with the Home Office, we’re pushing hard to maintain recruitment despite COVID-19 challenges. Creative solutions from the College of Policing ensure momentum continues in training and hiring.”
Government Rolls Out Biggest Police Boost in a Decade
- Record funding injections
- New covenant recognising police service and sacrifice
- Over 8,000 officers to receive Tasers
- Expanded stop and search powers
- Plans to increase maximum sentence for assaults on officers
This recruitment surge sits at the heart of the government’s promise to give police more resources and powers, keeping communities safer across the UK.
